Indian team will play with 10 players only; R Ashwin's replacement rule read decision

Ashwin’s Mid-Match Departure and the Challenge of Playing with 10

In an unexpected twist during the ongoing 3rd Test between India and England, Ravi Ashwin, who created history by achieving 500 Test wickets, has withdrawn from the match due to a family emergency. The news broke on Day 3, leaving Team India in a quandary about whether to play with 10 players or seek a replacement.

Ashwin’s Mid-Match Withdrawal: A Family Emergency

Ravi Ashwin, who reached the historic milestone of 500 Test wickets on the second day of the Rajkot Test, had to abruptly leave the match due to a family emergency. The sudden development was confirmed by the BCCI, issuing a statement detailing Ashwin’s withdrawal from the third Test.

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Replacement Dilemma: Can India Play with 10?

With Ashwin’s departure, the looming question is whether Team India can field a replacement during the ongoing Test. According to ICC rules, a player cannot be included in the playing eleven as a replacement without the opposing captain’s consent. Ben Stokes, the England captain, holds the key decision-making role in determining whether India can field a replacement.

As per MCC Rule 1.2.2, no player in the playing eleven can be substituted without the opposing captain’s permission. The dilemma now rests on Stokes’ decision – if he allows, India can replace Ashwin with another player; otherwise, they must continue with 10 players and one substitute. Notably, a substitute, as per the rules, is restricted to fielding and cannot bat or bowl.

However, in a strategic move, the Indian team has opted to play with 10 key players and 1 reserve player, with Devdutt Padikkal stepping in as Ashwin’s substitute. This decision signifies the team’s commitment to maintaining their playing composition, even in the face of an unexpected absence.

As the match progresses with this unforeseen turn of events, the absence of Ashwin and the strategic decision to play with 10 will undoubtedly add a layer of complexity to the already intriguing contest between India and England in the 3rd Test at Rajkot.